Books Like...

In "Malibu Rising" by Taylor Jenkins Reid, the story revolves around the Riva siblings, who are survivors of a dysfunctional family living in Malibu. The book delves into the family dynamics, the struggles each sibling faces, and the annual party held by Nina Riva that brings all their stories to a head. Set in a backdrop of fame, tragedy, and personal growth, the narrative flits between past and present, revealing the family history and leading up to a climactic event at the party. The writing style is engaging, with a mix of glitz and glam hiding underlying pathos, making it a compelling blend of family drama and beach read.

"Double Fault" by Lionel Shriver revolves around the intense relationship between two tennis players, Willy Novinsky and Eric Oberdorf. The story delves into their competitive nature, marriage struggles, and the impact of their careers on their personal lives. The writing style is described as detailed and in-depth, offering a close examination of the characters and their actions, particularly focusing on the themes of ambition, jealousy, and gender differences.

'The Singles Game' by Lauren Weisberger follows the journey of Charlie Silver, a professional tennis player navigating the glamorous yet competitive world of the tennis circuit. The book provides insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by Charlie as she strives for success in her career. The writing style blends elements of romance, humor, and wit, creating an engaging narrative that delves into the complexities of the professional tennis world.

The plot revolves around Charlie's character development, her ups and downs in the tennis world, and the exploration of themes like girl empowerment and reality checks. The author, through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, immerses the readers in the fast-paced and exhilarating world of professional tennis, offering a mix of entertainment and insights into the life of a professional athlete.

'I Was Here' by Gayle Forman is a poignant story that delves into the aftermath of youth suicide. The protagonist, Cody, grapples with the sudden suicide of her best friend, Meg, and embarks on a journey to uncover the reasons behind Meg's decision. As Cody navigates through grief, guilt, and unanswered questions, she meets new people and unearths hidden truths about Meg's life, leading to a profound exploration of friendship, loss, and self-discovery. Gayle Forman's writing style skillfully captures the raw emotions and complexities of the characters, offering a compelling narrative that unravels the impact of suicide on those left behind.

This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub is a time-traveling tale that delves into the themes of parent-child relationships, self-discovery, and the impact of choices on one's life. The story follows Alice, who, after finding a way to time travel, goes back to her 16th birthday in 1996, allowing her to reexamine her past, confront her regrets, and contemplate her future. Through her journeys between different time periods, Alice explores her relationships with her father, Leonard, her best friend, Sam, and herself, leading to moments of reflection, growth, and love.

The Favorites by Layne Fargo tells the gripping story of Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha, two childhood sweethearts determined to become Olympic ice skaters. Their journey is filled with ambition, love, and betrayal, as they navigate the competitive world of skating. The narrative unfolds through a documentary interview format, providing different perspectives on their lives and the challenges they face. Alongside them are complex side characters like the Lin twins, whose presence adds tension and depth to the story.

Fargo's writing style is engaging and dramatic, drawing readers into the emotional rollercoaster experienced by the characters. The book is packed with twists and powerful moments that evoke strong feelings, allowing the audience to connect deeply with each character. The vibrant storytelling, coupled with relatable themes of ambition and the complexities of relationships, makes this a standout read. It’s a tale that brilliantly captures both the highs and lows of pursuing a dream.

The Art of Fielding is a novel that revolves around the lives of characters associated with a fictional college baseball team at Westish College. The story follows the journey of talented baseball star Henry Skrimshander, whose promising career takes a downturn after a critical mistake shakes his confidence. The book delves into the lives of not only Henry but also the people around him, exploring the impacts they have on each other. The narrative is set in a small college campus in Michigan and portrays detailed portraits of key characters, making them memorable and human.

The book is not solely about baseball but rather focuses on the relationships and struggles of the characters. It intricately weaves together themes of coming of age, love, ambition, and personal growth, creating a compelling story that keeps readers hooked chapter after chapter. The writing is praised for its elegance and the way it captures the physicality and zen of the sport of baseball, even for readers unfamiliar with the game.

'The Queen's Gambit' by Walter Tevis is a novel that follows the story of a young orphan girl, Beth Harmon, who discovers her natural talent for chess. The book delves into Beth's journey as she navigates the world of chess, facing struggles such as substance abuse and mental health issues. Set against the backdrop of chess tournaments, the narrative explores Beth's growth and development as she rises to prominence in the international chess scene. The writing style is described as simple, well-done, and easy to read, capturing the essence of Beth's character and her obsession with the game of chess.

'Daisy Jones & The Six' by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a novel written in an interview format that tells the story of a 70s rock band, reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac. The book delves into the lives of the band members, their rise to fame, struggles with addiction, complex relationships, and the dynamics within the group. The writing style, portrayed through interview transcripts, provides a unique and engaging narrative that captures the essence of the rock 'n' roll era.

You'd Look Better as a Ghost follows Claire, a quirky female serial killer dealing with grief after her father's death. The story is punctuated by dark humor and an eclectic cast of characters, as Claire navigates her vengeful tendencies while attending a bereavement support group. Her moral compass is questionable, as she feels justified in punishing those who offend her, though her victims are often ordinary people. The plot features unexpected reveals and twists, keeping readers invested in Claire's chaotic life.

The writing style is engaging, filled with relatable inner monologues that blend comedy with suspense. The author crafts a complex protagonist, making readers both amused and unsettled by Claire's actions and thoughts. While the novel doesn't focus heavily on graphic murders, it explores themes of grief, identity, and the nature of humanity through Claire's unique perspective. Overall, it provides a mix of entertainment and thought-provoking elements, culminating in an unpredictable journey.